Core Viewpoint - The Gates Foundation aims to be a stable support force amid global challenges, particularly as many governments, including the U.S. and Europe, are cutting international aid, which threatens the health and lives of children in the least developed countries [1][3]. Group 1: Criticism of Government Aid Cuts - Bill Gates criticized Elon Musk for significantly reducing U.S. foreign aid while leading the "Government Efficiency Office," which he claims endangers the lives of millions of children [1][3]. - The U.S. has historically been the largest donor to global health initiatives, but under Trump's administration, many aid programs, including global health, were cut, exacerbating funding shortages in the sector [1][4]. Group 2: Gates Foundation's Commitment - Gates announced plans to donate 99% of his wealth, approximately $1.08 billion, to the Gates Foundation over the next 20 years, with a focus on global health [3][5]. - The foundation's budget for this year reached a record $8.74 billion, with expectations to grow to $9 billion next year, aiming to fill the gap left by reduced government funding [3][4]. Group 3: Historical Context and Impact - The Gates Foundation was established in 2000, initially focusing on global health after Gates was inspired by an article highlighting the dangers of contaminated water in developing countries [5][6]. - The foundation has played a crucial role in global health governance, notably through initiatives like the Global Vaccine Alliance (Gavi), which has vaccinated over 1 billion children and prevented more than 18 million deaths [5][6]. Group 4: Future Goals and Collaborations - The foundation's strategy remains focused on three core goals, including ending preventable maternal and child deaths, with significant contributions from Chinese partners in malaria treatment innovations [6]. - Recent developments include the pre-certification of malaria rapid diagnostic tests and artemisinin-based drugs, which will enhance global public health supply stability [6].